Leukaemia
Leukaemia is a group of cancers in which abnormal blood-forming cells accumulate in bone marrow and blood.
Key points
- Acute and chronic myeloid or lymphoid leukaemias differ greatly in urgency, genetics and treatment.
- Fatigue, infections, bruising or bone pain are possible signs but require blood and marrow testing because they are non-specific.
- Genetic and molecular findings increasingly determine targeted treatment and prognosis rather than the white-cell count alone.
The listings below are not interchangeable cancer medicines; haematology should confirm subtype, phase and treatment goal.
Defining the subtype
A full blood count and film may reveal abnormal cells, anaemia or low platelets. Flow cytometry, bone-marrow examination, chromosome and molecular tests establish lineage and specific drivers. Acute leukaemia can require treatment before every result is complete.
Treatment and supportive care
Options include combination chemotherapy, targeted inhibitors, immune therapies and stem-cell transplantation, while some indolent chronic leukaemias are initially observed. Transfusions, infection prevention, tumour-lysis monitoring and fertility discussion are integral parts of care.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent care for fever during treatment, uncontrolled bleeding, severe breathlessness, new confusion, fainting, rapidly worsening weakness or symptoms of stroke or clotting.